Monroe County will offer a substantial property tax benefit for the surviving spouses of local police officers killed in the line of duty.
County Executive Adam Bello signed legislation Sept. 10 to provide the families with a 50% property tax exemption on their primary residence. The local law stems from state legislation passed earlier this year. It was approved unanimously by the Monroe County Legislature.
The families of fallen officers are also eligible for state benefits equal to two-thirds of the officer's average weekly pay. County officials said the tax break is another way to support families.
"When an officer makes the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, we have a solemn responsibility to stand with the loved ones left behind," Legislator
Paul Dondorfer said in a statement. He is a Rochester Police Department investigator.
Dondorfer said the upcoming 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks is a fitting reminder of how law enforcement officers put themselves in harm's way to protect others.
— Kayla Canne covers community safety for the Democrat and Chronicle with a focus on immigration, police accountability, government surveillance and how people are impacted by violence. Follow her on Instagram @bykaylacanne. Get in touch at kcanne@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Monroe County grants tax break to spouses of fallen officers
